New this year is a VIP tour and tasting on Friday, December 1. Sponsored by the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience, the night will feature beautiful mansions and traditional holiday refreshments starting at the Russell Houston House, which operates as the Louisville Bourbon Inn (1332 S Fourth Street). Guests may enjoy Evan Williams Single Barrel Bourbon, Southern Egg Nog, wine, and savory hors d’oeuvres. The tour will include the Russell Houston Mansion, the Conrad Caldwell House Mansion as well as two private residences on St. James Court, elegantly lit for the holidays. Tickets are $50 and also include a ticket for the full Holiday Home Tour on December 2-3. The VIP event offers two entry times for Friday evening: 6 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Space is limited, so guests are encouraged to purchase their tickets early. Guests will receive their tour booklet at the Inn upon arrival.